Eurasian Watermilfoil Control in Public Lake
Aquatic Weed and Algae Control Case Study

Location and Acreage:
Monument, CO | ~30-Acres

Project Timeframe: 
2017

Project Manager:
Erin Stewart, Aquatic Biologist and Regional Leader

Key Staff:
Dylan Kwak, Wildlife & Fisheries Biologist
Chuck Rodosevich, Aquatic Specialist
Joe Hogan, Business Development Consultant

Site Description:
This lake is public aquatic resource about 30-acres in size and is used for a variety of non-motorized recreational activities. The resource is popular for Northern Pike, stocked Rainbow Trout, and Largemouth Bass fishing. Monument Lake is fed from two separate natural streams Monument Creek and Crystal Creek. The reservoir experienced excessive growth of Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum), identified by Colorado State University. The aquatic vegetation was sent to a lab for plant identification and strain testing prior to contact with SOLitude Lake Management.

Scope of Work:
Consulting Services, Contact Herbicide Application with Surfactants, Sediment Sample

Project Description:
The Town was referred to us through a current client due to concerns of Eurasian Watermilfoil growth. When we were contacted, the goal was to control the invasive species of milfoil found in approximately 10 acres of the lake and to restore recreational access. All legal and available management options were evaluated with the best management option chosen, consisting of two different contact herbicides. Within one month of treatment the Eurasian watermilfoil was successfully controlled within the treatment boundaries.

After the successful treatment, SOLitude Lake Management provided recommendations for long term improvements. To improve water quality, nutrient remediation as well as a whole lake bottom diffused aeration system was recommended. A new product will be applied at a low rate to control Eurasian watermilfoil but allow native species to grow. With the low rates of product, native vegetation including Coontail (Ceratophyllum demersum) may establish to improve fish habitat.